Author: Nick Coady & Peter Lehmann
Publisher: Springer Publishing Company (2016) · Language: English · ISBN-13: 978-0826165565
Theoretical Perspectives for Direct Social Work Practice: A Generalist-Eclectic Approach (4th Edition) presents a comprehensive and integrative overview of the major theories that inform direct social work practice. This edition emphasizes a generalist-eclectic framework, enabling practitioners to draw from multiple theoretical models to guide assessment, intervention, and evaluation across diverse client systems.
Key features include:
Detailed exploration of major theoretical perspectives, including psychodynamic, behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, and systemic approaches.
Integration of theory with social work values, ethics, and evidence-based practice principles.
Real-world case examples illustrating how theory informs clinical decision-making and practice interventions.
Discussion of cultural competence, diversity, and social justice in theory application.
Updated research and conceptual frameworks reflecting current developments in social work and behavioral sciences.
An essential resource for students, educators, and practitioners, this text bridges theoretical knowledge and applied skills—supporting flexible, ethical, and evidence-informed social work practice across micro, mezzo, and macro levels.